When you have a loved one in an assisted living facility, you want the visits to be positive and fun. However, it can be hard to know exactly what to do. The senior living advisors at CarePatrol of Connecticut, in Westport, share a few activities you should try.

What to Do When Visiting Loved Ones in Assisted Living

1. Make a Scrapbook

Bring along an array of art supplies and your senior’s stash of family photos and other small keepsakes. Work on the story of their life together and create a lasting memento for the whole family. This can include genealogical information, photos, cards, invitations, and newspaper clippings. A complete scrapbook may take several visits to complete, but it’ll be something the both of you can look forward to every time. 

2. Make Music

If you or your loved one plays a musical instrument, host an informal sing-along or concert for them and their friends in the assisted living community. Don’t worry about being perfect—music brings people together and is a joyful experience to share. If possible, take a music lesson together or introduce your senior to an easy instrument like a ukulele. 

3. Birdwatching

Many assisted living facilities have grounds where you can sit and enjoy the scenery. Sit outside together and birdwatch. Or, place a feeder outside their window and purchase a bird book to identify what comes along. Sitting outside in nature is a welcome treat if your loved one spends most of their days indoors.

4. Read Aloud

People of all ages love to listen to stories or current events. Your senior might not have the concentration or eyesight to read themselves, so reading a good book to them would be a welcome activity. Bring a newspaper from their hometown or discuss an article from a favorite magazine.  

There are so many activities you can do with loved ones when they are in an assisted living community. If you are considering a caring facility for older family members, CarePatrol of Connecticut will help with all aspects of senior placement service. Call (203) 244-9562 to start finding the best community for them. Visit their website to learn more about their services.